Dreaming of sipping coffee in Paris, exploring castles in Germany, or wandering the streets of Rome? A European vacation is exciting — but it also comes with a price tag. If you’re planning a trip across the Atlantic, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: How much does a trip to Europe cost from the USA? The answer depends on your travel style, the countries you plan to visit, how long you’re staying, and the season in which you travel.
From flights and accommodation to meals, sightseeing, and transportation within Europe, there are many small and big expenses to consider. In this guide, we’ll break down the trip cost to Europe from USA with a realistic budget that can help solo travelers, couples, or even families plan their trip better — whether you’re backpacking or going for comfort.
Average Flight Prices from the US to Europe
Airfare is usually the largest upfront expense when calculating your trip cost to Europe from USA. The average round-trip flight from major cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles to top European destinations like London, Paris, or Rome ranges from $500 to $1,200 depending on the time of year. Traveling during the summer or around holidays will generally cost more, while flying in the off-season — like early spring or late fall — can help you save hundreds of dollars.
Budget airlines such as Norse Atlantic Airways or PLAY also offer cheap transatlantic flights, but they may not include baggage or meals, which can drive up your final cost. Booking 2–3 months in advance and using tools like Google Flights or Hopper can help you monitor prices and find deals. Overall, if you’re flying economy and plan smartly, you should expect to spend around $700–$900 on your round-trip flight when budgeting your total trip cost to Europe from USA.
Accommodation Costs Across Europe
Once you’ve landed in Europe, your next big expense is accommodation. Hotel and lodging prices vary widely depending on the country, city, and type of stay you choose. In Western European cities like London, Amsterdam, and Paris, hotel rooms can cost anywhere from $120 to $250 per night for mid-range options. In Southern or Eastern European countries such as Portugal, Greece, or Hungary, you might pay as little as $60 to $100 per night for a comfortable stay.
For budget travelers, hostels offer shared dorms for $25–$50 per night, and Airbnb rentals can be a good option if you’re staying for multiple nights. For those seeking luxury, five-star hotels in cities like Zurich or Milan can cost upwards of $400 per night. On average, for a 10-day stay, plan on spending about $900–$1,800 on accommodation, depending on your travel style. This cost is a significant part of your total trip cost to Europe from USA and should be planned early.
Daily Food and Dining Expenses
European food is both a cultural experience and an expense to consider. Dining out every meal in major cities can quickly add up, especially in countries like Switzerland or France. Breakfast might be included in your hotel stay, but lunch and dinner can range from $10 to $30 per meal for casual dining, and $50 or more at mid-range restaurants.
In more affordable countries like Spain or Poland, meals are often cheaper — with tasty local food available for as little as $8–$15. Street food and bakeries also offer budget-friendly options. Cooking your own meals occasionally (if staying in a hostel or Airbnb) can reduce your daily food costs to around $20–$30.
If you prefer to eat out for all meals and try local cuisines, a more realistic food budget would be around $40–$60 per day, totaling $400–$600 for a 10-day trip. Food may not be your biggest expense, but it does affect your total trip cost to Europe from USA.
Transportation Within Europe
Once in Europe, getting around is easy thanks to its strong train network, low-cost airlines, and buses. High-speed trains like the Eurostar or Deutsche Bahn can take you from one country to another in just a few hours, but tickets may cost between $30 to $100 depending on when you book. Eurail passes are popular for travelers visiting multiple countries, starting at around $250 for a few days of travel.
Budget airlines such as Ryanair or EasyJet offer flights as cheap as $20–$60 if booked in advance, but again, beware of extra fees for luggage and seating. City transportation, like metro or trams, costs just a few dollars per day, and many cities offer day passes or tourist cards with discounts.
Overall, you should expect to spend $300–$500 on regional travel if you’re visiting 2–4 countries, making internal transportation a considerable part of your trip cost to Europe from USA.
Sightseeing, Tours, and Entry Fees
Europe is packed with historical landmarks, museums, and activities — most of which aren’t free. Entry to famous sites like the Eiffel Tower ($30), the Colosseum ($20), or the Louvre ($20) adds up quickly, especially if you’re visiting multiple attractions daily. Guided tours, boat rides, day trips to castles or countryside, and local experiences like wine tastings or cooking classes can also cost between $40 to $100 per activity.
If you’re planning a lot of sightseeing, consider city passes (like the Paris Pass or Rome City Card) that bundle entry tickets and transport for a discounted price. Budget at least $200–$400 for sightseeing and experiences over a 10-day trip. While it’s a flexible part of your budget, it’s also what makes your trip memorable and should be included in your trip cost to Europe from USA.
Total Estimated Trip Cost to Europe from USA in 2025
So, how much does a trip cost to Europe from USA in 2025? Here’s a simple breakdown based on a 10-day trip for one person with mid-range choices:
- Round-trip flight: $700 – $900
- Accommodation: $900 – $1,800
- Food & drinks: $400 – $600
- Transport within Europe: $300 – $500
- Activities & sightseeing: $200 – $400
Total Estimated Cost: $2,500 – $4,200
This estimate doesn’t include shopping, travel insurance, or emergencies. Your personal travel habits — such as splurging on hotels, eating out every meal, or booking private tours — will change the final number. But with careful planning, Europe is accessible at different budget levels, whether you’re backpacking or traveling in comfort.
Visiting Turks and Caicos Instead? Let Us Take Care of Your Ride!
Planning a beach escape before or after your European adventure? If you’re coming to Turks and Caicos, don’t miss out on the freedom of having your own car. Book your car rental with us and explore the islands stress-free — perfect for couples, solo travelers, or families. Reserve now for the best local rates and smooth service!
FAQs
What is the cheapest time to travel to Europe from the US?
Late fall (October–November) and early spring (February–March) are usually the cheapest due to lower demand, making flights and hotels more affordable.
Is $3,000 enough for a 10-day trip to Europe?
Yes, $3,000 is a solid mid-range budget for flights, hotels, meals, and activities if you plan carefully and avoid peak season.
How can I reduce my trip cost to Europe from USA?
Book flights in advance, travel off-season, stay in hostels or Airbnbs, use public transport, and eat local meals to save money.
What countries in Europe are cheaper to visit?
Portugal, Hungary, Greece, Poland, and the Czech Republic tend to be more affordable compared to France, the UK, or Switzerland.
Are city passes worth it in Europe?
Yes, city passes often include major attractions, transportation, and skip-the-line benefits, saving you time and money during your trip.